Avalanche Advisory published on February 9, 2017 @ 7:00 amThis advisory is valid for 24 hoursIssued by Andy Anderson - Tahoe National ForestThe avalanche danger will rise to CONSIDERABLE today at all elevations as hurricane force winds and heavy precipitation impact the region. Human triggeredwind slabavalanches and wet loose avalanches will become likely today. As snow levels lower this afternoon and evening, wind slabs will become more widespread and larger and loose wet snow instabilities will become smaller and more isolated. Natural avalanches will become possible this afternoon and during the night as more snow accumulates. Another storm has arrived over the region with hurricane force southwest winds along the Sierra Crest. The winds will become stronger and more widespread today as this storm builds. Even winds at lower elevations could reach into the 40 to 60 mph range with gusts to 100 mph. At the upper elevations expect to see sustained wind speeds in the 60 to 80 mph range with gusts to145 mph. Winds should start to decrease some after midnight and into tomorrow. Rain and snow will increase over the region today with periods of heavy precipitation from midday onward. Most of today's precipitation should fall as 1 to 2 inches of rain below 8000 ft. due to snow levels that remain between 8000 and 8500 ft. for much of the day. Temperatures should start to cool this afternoon and evening and the forecast calls for snow levels to drop to around 7000 ft. tonight allowing for 6 to 12 inches of snow to accumulate. By tomorrow this storm should start to wind down and colder air should push into the region. Expect another 3 to 6 inches of snow tomorrow with snow levels at or below Lake Level.

DisclaimerThis avalanche advisory is provided through a partnership between the Tahoe National Forest and the Sierra Avalanche Center. This advisory covers the Central Sierra Nevada Mountains between Yuba Pass on the north and Ebbetts Pass on the south. Click here for a map of the forecast area. This advisory applies only to backcountry areas outside established ski area boundaries. This advisory describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur. This advisory expires 24 hours after the posted time unless otherwise noted. The information in this advisory is provided by the USDA Forest Service who is solely responsible for its content.

For a recorded version of the Avalanche Advisory call (530) 587-3558 x258